Quick answer
Galápagos Tortoises (Chelonoidis niger) are reptiles found across South America. The giant tortoise that can live over a century. Adults typically weigh Up to 250 kg (550 lb) or more, reach speeds of up to 0.3 km/h (0 mph), and live Over 100 years. They feed on herbivore and are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Found only on the Galápagos Islands, a volcanic archipelago off the coast of Ecuador.
Key takeaway
Galápagos Tortoises (Chelonoidis niger) are reptiles found across South America. The giant tortoise that can live over a century. Adults typically weigh Up to 250 kg (550 lb) or more, reach speeds of up to 0.3 km/h (0 mph), and live Over 100 years. They feed on herbivore and are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Found only on the Galápagos Islands, a volcanic archipelago off the coast of Ecuador.
Galápagos Tortoise overview
Galápagos Tortoise (Chelonoidis niger) is a reptile listed here as Vulnerable. Typical weight Up to 250 kg (550 lb) or more; lifespan around Over 100 years.
Galápagos Tortoise ecology
Diet: Herbivore. Habitat: Volcanic islands, grasslands, and scrub. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Galápagos Tortoises and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild galápagos tortoises are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Vulnerable. See the full Galápagos Tortoise profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Galápagos Tortoises inhabit Found only on the Galápagos Islands, a volcanic archipelago off the coast of Ecuador. Their preferred habitat includes volcanic islands, grasslands, and scrub, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence across South A
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult galápagos tortoises typically measure about 1.2 m in length and weigh Up to 250 kg (550 lb) or more. They can sprint at up to 0.3 km/h (0 mph) when hunting or escaping predators. Galápagos Tortoises are known for the giant tortoise that can live over a century — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Galápagos Tortoise FAQs
What are key facts about galápagos tortoises?
Galápagos Tortoises (Chelonoidis niger) are reptiles found across South America. The giant tortoise that can live over a century. Adults typically weigh Up to 250 kg (550 lb) or more, reach speeds of up to 0.3 km/h (0 mph), and live Over 100 years. They feed on herbivore and are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Found only on the Galápagos Islands, a volcanic archipelago off the coast of Ecuador.
What is the scientific name of the galápagos tortoise?
Chelonoidis niger — used in research and conservation listings for galápagos tortoises.
What do galápagos tortoises eat?
Galápagos Tortoises are described as herbivores, with seasonal and regional variation in Volcanic islands, grasslands, and scrub.
Where do galápagos tortoises live?
They are associated with Volcanic islands, grasslands, and scrub. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of galápagos tortoises?
Listed in our guides as Vulnerable. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.